White House with Dark Shutters: Beautiful Contrast or Too Contradictory? See the Photos!

The History of White Houses with Dark Shutters

The design of a white house with dark shutters has been around for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the early colonial times when houses were built using natural resources like wood logs. The natural wood siding was painted white to offer a reflective and protective surface. Most shutters were made of wood and were painted black or a dark blue to contrast the white walls.

Historical Significance of the White House with Dark Shutters

The white house with dark shutters became a symbol of American strength and stability. During the American Revolution, General George Washington’s Mount Vernon home was painted white with dark shutters, and it became a symbol of patriotism and resistance against the British Crown.

The Evolution of the White House with Dark Shutters

The white house with dark shutters evolved with the architectural styles of the times. In the 20th century, the classic white farmhouse with black shutters was a popular design with American families. The contrasting black shutters added a timeless look of elegance and sophistication to the simple white design. In recent years, the trend has expanded to include modern white houses with black shutters, inspiring a new generation of home designers.

Designing a White House with Dark Shutters

Choosing the Right Shade of Shutters:

Picking the right color for your shutters is crucial in achieving the classic white house with dark shutters look. The standard colors for shutters are black or a dark blue. However, there are other shades available such as a darker green, navy blue, or even a deep brown. The color chosen should harmonize with the overall exterior design of the house.

Coordinating the Color Scheme of the House:

The colors of the shutters should be coordinated with the rest of the house, including the front door, window frames, and porch details. The doors can be painted a bright red or blue to add a pop of color. White house black shutters with a red door is a popular choice. White house black shutters with a navy blue door is also a classic combination.

Incorporating Other Design Elements:

Adding other design elements to the façade of the house can help to enhance the overall look. For example, installing a porch with columns, shutters on the second floor windows, or a flower trellis can add character and charm to the house.

Maintaining a White House with Dark Shutters

Cleaning and Care for Shutters:

To maintain the white house with dark shutters look, the shutters should be cleaned annually. Use a soft-bristled brush and a mild detergent to remove any dirt or grime. Rinse thoroughly with a hose. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools to clean the shutters, as this can damage the paint and the wood.

Repainting and Maintenance of Shutters:

If the shutters become damaged or chipped, they need to be repainted. It’s best to remove the shutters from the windows before painting them, but it’s also possible to paint them while they are still attached. Repainting should be done every five to ten years to maintain the overall appearance of the house.

Preserving the House’s Overall Appearance with Dark Shutters:

To preserve the overall appearance of the white house with dark shutters, it’s important to check for any damages regularly, such as cracks in the walls or chipping on the shutters. If the damage is severe, it’s best to contact a professional to make the necessary repairs to avoid any further damage.

FAQs

Q: What is a white house with dark shutters?

A: A white house with dark shutters is a classic American home design that features white walls and contrasting black or blue shutters.

Q: Are there different shades of shutters for white houses?

A: Yes, the standard shades of shutters for white houses are black or dark blue. However, shutters can also come in shades such as green, navy blue, or a deep brown.

Q: What colors coordinate with white houses with dark shutters?

A: The colors that coordinate with white houses with dark shutters are bright red, navy blue, and other colors that contrast with the white walls.

Q: How do I maintain a white house with dark shutters?

A: To maintain a white house with dark shutters, the shutters should be cleaned annually with a soft-bristled brush and mild detergent. Regularly check for damages and repaint the shutters every five to ten years to maintain the home’s overall appearance.

In conclusion, the white house with dark shutters is a classic American design that has been around for centuries. This elegant and sophisticated look can be achieved by choosing the right shade of shutters, coordinating the color scheme of the house, and incorporating other design elements. To maintain the overall appearance of the house with dark shutters, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential.